Local News

Fake Health Insurance Exchange Sites

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — California authorities have shuttered several Web sites they say misled consumers into thinking they were affiliated with the state's official insurance marketplace.

State Attorney General Kamala Harris announced Thursday that 10 sites have been closed or redirected to the official exchange after receiving letters demanding they "cease and desist." No arrests or charges were announced.

California law requires insurance companies and brokers to secure an agreement with Covered California, the state exchange, before offering services on behalf of the exchange.

Harris said health insurance plans sold outside the exchange may not come with the same consumer protections included with official policies.